Heat Exhaustion Treatment

Heat exhaustion treatment should begin immediately when a person is suspected of having heat exhaustion, and the primary treatment is evaporative cooling and removing the person from the hot environment.

The person should be placed in the shade or in a cool building while awaiting transport to a medical facility.

Have the individual lie down, with their legs elevated above the level of the heart.

Remove any clothing the person is wearing if it inhibits evaporative cooling.

Cooling can be aided by misting the skin with cool water and then circulating air with fans in order to increase evaporative cooling (a cool water shower may also help, if available).

Provide the person with refrigerated drinks such as Gatorade or other sports drinks.

Additionally, intravenous fluids may be given by medical personnel to treat or prevent dehydration.